The European Commission has issued preliminary findings against several major adult content platforms, stating that they may have breached the European Union’s Digital Services Act (DSA) by failing to prevent minors from accessing their services, according to official statements and reporting.
The platforms named include Pornhub, Stripchat, XNXX, and XVideos. Regulators said the companies did not implement effective age verification systems, relying instead on methods such as self-declaration tools and warning screens. Authorities stated these measures were insufficient to stop underage users from accessing restricted content.
The investigation followed a review of internal documents, risk assessments, and platform data collected over several months. According to the Commission, the companies did not adequately assess the risks their services pose to minors or take sufficient steps to mitigate those risks.
Officials also raised concerns about the design of current safeguards. Systems that allow users to confirm they are over 18 with a single click were described as ineffective, and additional measures, such as blurred previews or warning labels, were not considered adequate protection.
The case forms part of broader enforcement of the Digital Services Act, which requires large online platforms to address illegal and harmful content and to implement safeguards for vulnerable users. Under the regulation, companies are required to identify and reduce systemic risks, including those affecting children.
If the preliminary findings are confirmed, the companies could face penalties of up to 6% of their global annual revenue. The platforms have been given the opportunity to respond to the Commission’s assessment before a final decision is made.
Representatives of some of the companies said they are reviewing the findings and engaging with regulators. Public statements indicated that concerns have also been raised about the effectiveness of existing age-verification systems and the potential for stricter rules to shift users toward less-regulated platforms.
The Commission stated that further steps will depend on the outcome of the ongoing procedure and any responses submitted by the companies.